Defense Firm's Software Can Track You Online

Raytheon's 'Riot' program combs through social media

(Newser)
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Hope you haven't been kidding around about al-Qaeda on Facebook, because new software may have already spotted it. A Massachusetts-based security firm has secretly invented a program called Riot—or Rapid Information Overlay Technology—that can track people on social media and predict their future activities. The multi-billion-dollar company, Raytheon, didn't want its concept video revealed, but the Guardian posted it anyway.

The video shows how Riot works on a sample Raytheon staff member, tracking his regular visits to Washington Nationals Park and a local gym. "So if you ever did want to try to get hold of Nick, or maybe get hold of his laptop, you might want to visit the gym at 6am on a Monday," says an investigator. A spider diagram even tracks his relationships with other people online. Raytheon says it has showed Riot to the US government but insists it has no buyers yet. Records show, however, that the program's trade-control designation allows it to "be shipped without a license to most destinations under most circumstances."

It is sad our technoglogyhas destroyed the privacy of individuals. The thought police are coming. This is a test, it is only a test: muslim., Al Qaeda flys balloons over la la land.; The final joke bombed in Washington... Test results may not be available for public view!

$28919642

Feb 12, 2013 10:58 AM CST

Raytheon says it has showed Riot to the US government but insists it has no buyers yet. No buyers yet...right, right, sure, sure, that's the ticket...yeah....

ar2997

Feb 12, 2013 1:42 AM CST

Yes, Big Brother has been in existence for a long while. We don't have many freedoms anymore...

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